When you send your child to be educated by someone else, you form a partnership with them. This can be a hostile partnership or it can be a productive partnership, it’s your choice. It will benefit your child if it is productive, because that allows the focus to remain on the child, not the adults. Just as two divorced parents using their children as pawns to even the score in their battle of wills can do far more harm than good for their children, parents and teachers lost in an ego trip cause damage to the student. The child’s needs and best interest are forgotten as the adults are occupied with proving who is right and who is wrong. This is not the way to provide the best education possible for your child. In all your interactions with your child’s teachers and school personnel, keep the focus on your child. Once you are convinced that you have found the school that will join you in supporting your child’s academic success, form a team and maintain that common goal.
We are all motivated to work harder when we feel appreciated. Take time to express gratitude for the people who are helping you educate your child. Look for the good and comment on it. You have valuable information to contribute to the team in the form of your knowledge of your child. The professionals will do a better job if they know more about your child–what motivates them and what can trigger a melt down. Share your observations, hopes, fears, concerns and vision for your child.
I have seen miracles happen when a team of concerned parents and caring professionals is formed. Students reach levels of academic achievement beyond what was expected. Classroom behavior improves. Students gain confidence and overcome challenges. Your child will achieve maximum progress when you and his school are working together in harmony. It is best for the student, best for the parent and best for the school when they work together. It’s a win-win-win.